Quick Facts
About Queen Elizabeth National Park
Peak Time
June – September & December – February
Best Time To Go
Year-round, but the dry seasons (June – September & December – February) offer the best wildlife viewing
Famous For
Tree-climbing lions, boat safaris, and diverse landscapes
Home Of
Over 95 mammal species, 600+ bird species, hippos, elephants, and chimpanzees
Overview
Queen Elizabeth National Park, located in southwestern Uganda, is one of the most biodiverse safari destinations in Africa. Covering 1,978 square kilometers, the park boasts savannahs, forests, wetlands, and crater lakes, making it an ideal destination for wildlife enthusiasts.
The park is famous for its tree-climbing lions in Ishasha, large elephant herds, and the Kazinga Channel, which hosts one of Africa’s highest concentrations of hippos. It also offers boat safaris, chimpanzee trekking, and scenic crater drives, making it one of Uganda’s top safari parks.
Wildlife
Queen Elizabeth National Park is home to an incredible variety of wildlife, including:
- Tree-Climbing Lions – Found in the Ishasha sector, where lions lounge in fig trees.
- Elephants & Buffalos – Roaming across the open plains and wetlands.
- Leopards & Hyenas – Often spotted on early morning and night game drives.
- Hippos & Crocodiles – Abundant in the Kazinga Channel.
- Over 600 Bird Species – One of the best birdwatching parks in Africa.
Tree-Climbing Lions of Ishasha
One of the most unique attractions in Queen Elizabeth National Park is its tree-climbing lions in the Ishasha sector. Unlike most lions, these predators spend their days resting in large fig trees, providing an exceptional photographic opportunity.
Scientists believe that this rare behavior helps them avoid the heat and biting insects on the ground. Spotting these lions is a highlight of any safari in Uganda.
Kazinga Channel Boat Safari
The Kazinga Channel, a 32-kilometer natural waterway connecting Lake Edward and Lake George, is famous for its incredible concentration of hippos and crocodiles.
A boat cruise on the channel offers breathtaking sightings of:
- Hippos & Nile Crocodiles – The largest population in Uganda.
- Elephants & Buffalos – Coming to drink along the shores.
- Water Birds – Including African fish eagles, pelicans, and kingfishers.
A boat safari on the Kazinga Channel is one of the best wildlife experiences in East Africa.
Scenic Landscapes & Crater Lakes
Queen Elizabeth National Park features stunning scenery, including:
- The Explosion Crater Drive – Offering panoramic views of extinct volcanic craters.
- Mweya Peninsula – A highland area with breathtaking views of the Kazinga Channel.
- The Rwenzori Mountains – Visible in the distance, adding to the park’s dramatic landscape.
- Maramagambo Forest – A lush rainforest home to chimpanzees, bats, and rare birds.
Activities
Queen Elizabeth National Park offers a variety of safari activities, including:
- Game Drives – Explore Kasenyi Plains and Ishasha for the best wildlife sightings.
- Boat Safaris – Cruise the Kazinga Channel for close-up views of hippos and elephants.
- Chimpanzee Trekking – Available in Kyambura Gorge and nearby Kalinzu Forest.
- Birdwatching – Over 600 species, including the rare shoebill stork.
- Cultural Experiences – Visit local communities, salt mines, and traditional dance performances.
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Best Time to Visit
Queen Elizabeth National Park can be visited year-round, but the experience varies by season:
- June – September & December – February: Best for game viewing and boat safaris.
- March – May & October – November: Best for birdwatching, with lush green landscapes.
Accommodation
Queen Elizabeth offers luxury lodges, mid-range camps, and budget-friendly options, including:
- Luxury Lodges – Mweya Safari Lodge, Kyambura Gorge Lodge.
- Mid-Range Lodges – Enganzi Game Lodge, Ihamba Safari Lodge.
- Budget-Friendly Options – Bush lodges and community guesthouses.
Why Visit Queen Elizabeth National Park
Queen Elizabeth National Park is Uganda’s most diverse wildlife destination, offering tree-climbing lions, boat safaris, chimpanzee trekking, and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you’re a safari enthusiast, birder, or nature lover, this park offers an unforgettable African adventure.